What Can You Do with a Degree in the Humanities? More Than You Think

Why a humanities degree might be your smartest career move yet.

A humanities degree isn’t just about studying history, literature or philosophy — it’s about developing the skills that make a real impact in the world. Unlike fields tied to specific industries or job titles, the humanities don’t fit neatly into a single category. Instead, they offer something broader, a lens through which to think, create, question, and connect. Trust me, there’s plenty you can do with a degree in the humanities.

What is the study of the humanities? Covering a wide range of subjects, this field involves understanding how people think, how cultures evolve and how meaning is created. Far from being a narrow path, a degree in the humanities opens doors to diverse careers where creativity, critical thinking and cultural insight are in high demand.

Forget the outdated “starving artist” stereotype. Today, humanities graduates are thriving in major companies, launching startups, leading creative teams and shaping strategies at major companies. Their ability to analyze, communicate and connect ideas is exactly what businesses and organizations need. A degree in the humanities doesn’t limit your future — it expands it.

Jobs in the humanities

If you’re still wondering what you can do with a degree in the humanities, here are just a few examples that break the mold:

1. Development director

Lead fundraising strategies and donor relations for nonprofits, universities, or cultural institutions. With an average salary of $97,870 per year in the US, it’s a strong option for relationship builders and mission-driven professionals.

2. Director of communications

Manage a company’s voice and messaging through PR, media, and internal communications. This leadership role, averaging $97,850 per year, values strategic thinking, cultural fluency and strong writing skills.

3. Human resources director

Oversee recruitment, training, employee relations, and organizational culture in a business setting. Humanities grads can thrive in this people-focused role, which offers an average salary of $106,550 per year.

4. Regulatory affairs manager

Ensure compliance with industry regulations, especially in healthcare, biotech, or pharmaceuticals. This high-responsibility role combines ethics and strategy, offering an average salary of $100,430 per year.

5. Proposal manager

Direct proposals for any company, covering everything from initial development to final client presentations. You’ll put your persuasive writing and critical thinking skills to use to help businesses thrive, with the chance to earn an average of $108,150 per year.

6. Senior editor

Supervise the creation of written content, guiding the process from selecting story ideas to reviewing final drafts for accuracy and quality. This job combines language skills, creative vision and people management, with an average salary of $89,760 per year.

7. Art director

Develop the artistic concept for marketing campaigns. Use your creative vision to guide a team and launch innovative ads in this exciting role, which offers an average salary of $83,560 per year.

These roles demand strategic thinkers who can connect dots others don’t even see yet. That’s the humanities advantage.

At IE University, the humanities mean business

IE University’s approach is unique. We don’t separate culture from innovation. Our Bachelor in Humanities and Dual Degree in Business Administration & Humanities programs are built to help students connect big ideas with real-world impact.

Through interdisciplinary learning, innovative teaching methods and hands-on projects, students develop the tools to think deeply and act practically. Whether your goal is to build a social enterprise, fulfill your creative passions or become a global strategist, you’ll get both inspiration and professional preparation. IE University will help you turn your curiosity and passion into a career path.

So, should you study the humanities?

If you care about people, culture, and the ideas that shape the world, a degree in the humanities might be the smartest move you make. It will prepare you to ask better questions, tell better stories and build a career that leaves room for creativity and adaptability. You don’t have to give up your passion projects to succeed — they might just be the thing that makes you stand out.

If you’re curious about where the humanities could take you, explore IE University’s Bachelor in Humanities or our Dual Degree in Business Administration & Humanities.